Reporting Drug Diversion in a Healthcare Setting to the Division of Professions and Occupations The Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) wants employers to know that we take drug diversion by licensed healthcare professionals seriously, and that the licensing boards and programs in the Division can take swift action to protect patients, including immediate suspension of a license. As a Division we would like to work with you, employers, in taking swift licensing action to protect patients while also ensuring that we do not compromise any other investigation that may be taking place. The Division oversees licensing and enforcement for 250,000 healthcare practitioners in the state (see back for list of regulated healthcare professions).

Let DPO know!! When you come across information that involves suspect drug diversion in a healthcare facility, ​ let DPO know! The easiest way to notify the Division is by filing a complaint with us. Visit ​ askDORA.colorado.gov and click on “File a Complaint.” Anyone may file a complaint including the patient, family member, employer, colleague, or other person. Examples of when to file a complaint: ● A nurse refusing to submit to a drug test ordered by his/her employer ● A surgical assistant allowed to resign for suspected drug diversion ● A respiratory therapist found working under the influence

Helpful Materials to Include with the Complaint: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Copies of any police reports; Copies of occurrence reports filed with CDPHE; Copies of internal investigative information; Copies of any drug testing requested or performed; Copies of witness names and statements; and Other information typically used in your internal investigation process.

DPO Contact Information To file a complaint: ​ Visit​ askDORA.colorado.gov​ ​ and click on “File a Complaint.” For questions or comments contact: Jacki Arcelin, Senior Advisor to the Deputy Director (​ [email protected]​ or via phone (303) 894‐3005)

Healthcare Practitioners Regulated by the Division

Acupuncturists

Naturopathic Doctors

Respiratory Therapists

Addiction Counselors

Nurses and Nurse Aides

Social Workers

Athletic Trainers

Nursing Home Administrators

Speech‐Language Pathologists

Audiologists

Occupational Therapists

Surgical Assistants & Surgical Technologists

Chiropractors

Optometrists

Veterinarians

Dentists and Hygienists

Pharmacists

Direct‐Entry Midwives

Physical Therapists

Hearing Aid Providers

Podiatrists

Marriage & Family Therapists

Professional Counselors

Massage Therapists

Psychologists

Physicians and PAs

Registered Psychotherapists